Are you ready to experience the sunny desert vibes of Scottsdale, Arizona? Whether you’re planning a solo retreat, a romantic getaway, or a fun-filled family vacation, Scottsdale offers something for everyone. But before you dive into the fun, let’s talk about how you can make your trip even more amazing by booking your vacation rental on Book Direct Day on February 5th this year.

What Is Book Direct Day?

Book Direct Day is an initiative that educates travelers about the many advantages of booking their vacation rentals directly through property managers or owners rather than relying on third-party booking sites like Airbnb or Vrbo. While these platforms are convenient, they come with added costs that you can easily avoid by booking directly with property managers.

This campaign was started by Amy Hinote, the founder of VRM Intel, in an effort to highlight the advantages of bypassing extra service fees, hidden charges, and commissions that are commonly associated with OTAs (Online Travel Agencies). The goal is to create awareness about how booking direct can save you money, enhance your travel experience, and offer better customer service.

The Perks of Booking Direct

When you book directly with a vacation rental owner or manager, you unlock a range of benefits that can make your trip even more enjoyable. From cost savings to a more personalized experience, booking direct offers a variety of perks that third-party platforms just can’t match.

Cost Savings

Booking through third-party sites means dealing with hefty service fees that can quickly add up to a significant portion of your vacation rental total. When you book directly with property managers, these extra fees are eliminated, often saving you a lot of money. Whether you’re booking a cozy one-bedroom condo or a spacious family home, booking direct means lower rates and exclusive discounts that are often unavailable through OTAs.

Property managers also offer special packages and last-minute deals that can only be accessed when you book directly, so you’ll be getting a better value for your vacation without the extra burden of third-party charges.

Better Communication & Personalization

When you book through an OTA, you’re usually dealing with a middleman. This means that if you have a special request, question, or issue, you’re going to have to go through multiple steps to get in touch with the right person. But when you book direct, you can communicate straight with the property manager.

Whether you have specific questions about the property, want to make special arrangements or need assistance during your stay, booking directly means more personalized service and better communication.

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Flexibility & Customization

When you book direct, you’re not stuck with rigid terms. With OTAs, you’re often forced to accept whatever they present in their listing. But when you book directly with property managers, you have much more flexibility and control over your vacation. From adjusting your dates to securing that perfect room with the ideal view, the direct booking process allows you to customize your stay to your preferences.

Supporting Local Businesses

Booking directly also means you’re supporting local businesses and helping the community thrive. Third-party platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo take a large percentage of the rental fee, which means less money goes to the property owners. By booking directly, you’re helping property managers reinvest in their homes, ensuring that they can continue offering top-quality stays for visitors to Scottsdale.

Supporting local businesses goes beyond the property managers too. When you book directly, you’re more likely to receive recommendations for local restaurants, boutiques, and hidden gems that can help you make the most of your vacation. The more you support these businesses, the better the local economy becomes.

Book Your Stay with Our Team at I Love Scottsdale

Now that you know the importance of booking direct, let’s talk about why booking with I Love Scottsdale is the perfect choice for your next vacation.

At I Love Scottsdale, we help you choose the perfect vacation rental for your needs. Our team is local, and we’re passionate about sharing all the insider tips and hidden treasures Scottsdale has to offer. Whether you’re visiting on a solo retreat, a couple’s getaway, or a fun-filled family vacation, we’ve got the perfect Scottsdale rental for you!

Our immaculately decorated and furnished vacation homes come with luxury amenities, including private pools, billiards tables, hot tubs, and more! With properties across Scottsdale, including Inlet Beach, Rosemary Beach, Seaside, and beyond, you’ll be just minutes away from all the top attractions. Whether you prefer a cozy condo with beautiful views or a sprawling mansion for a large group, we have something for every traveler and every budget.

Make Your Dream Scottsdale Vacation a Reality

This Book Direct Day, choose to skip the middlemen and book directly with I Love Scottsdale. Whether you’re coming for a relaxing escape or an action-packed adventure, our properties are the perfect home base for your Scottsdale vacation. Book now and let us help you plan an unforgettable stay in Scottsdale!

Get ready for another exciting year by treating you and your family to a wonderful family getaway. Everyone takes their New Year’s resolution seriously year to year so why not use to help support more than just yourself. For 2025, utilize your New Year’s resolution by getting you and your family here to Scottsdale for a vibrant vacation getaway. Spending time together in a gorgeous setting with tons of activities nearby is just what you needed. Take a look at what you New Year’s resolution to travel to Scottsdale can look like for you:

Family Friendly Attractions

Visiting somewhere like Scottsdale provides you with opportunities to show your kids fun, educational activities. Scottsdale is home to OdySea Aquarium where you can find a huge aquarium filled with thousands of aquatic critters. OdySea Aquarium features dramatic exhibits that highlight some of our favorite marine life including sharks, sting rays, jellyfish, octopus, penguins, eels, and so much more. You can enjoy interactive experiences such as getting close to penguins or walking the bottom of an underwater exhibit in a scuba set. A 3D movie provides just one of the educational experiences your kids are sure to love. Once you are done at OdySea Aquarium head next door to Butterfly Wonderland. This is a huge enclosed atrium filled with thousands of butterflies that freely fly around. Your kids will love having a butterfly or two land on them providing with the perfect picture opportunity. They have not seen anything quite like these experiences!

Explore Old Town Scottsdale

Scottsdale is part of the greater Phoenix Valley but also has its very own downtown neighborhood. We are talking about Old Town Scottsdale that is located in the historic part of town. Here in Old Town Scottsdale you can find everything from premium art galleries to award winning restaurants. Local favorites for dining include Barrio Queen, Craft 64, and The Mission. Stop by a winery tasting room such as Aridus Wine Company where you can enjoy a sampling flight. If the adults are looking for an exciting day or night on the town stop by local clubs such as Boondocks or El Hefe. You can book a party bike with local tour guides that will pedal you around to the different hotspots right here in Old Town Scottsdale. There is something for everyone to explore here in the area.

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Explore the McDowell Sonoran Preserve

Right in our very own backyard you will be able to explore the gorgeous desert landscape that Arizona is home too. Scottsdale is right on the edge of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve that offers several hiking trails that are open year round to explore. The miles of self guided hikes are a great way to go at your own pace and see the local mountains and desert landscape. Visitors can also take part in guided hikes that are held at certain points during the year and can be reserved. This is a great way to learn about the local region. If you prefer to mountain bike there are plenty of trails that are also reserved for this. You will share the trail with hikers and have freedom to go at your own speed. The McDowell Sonoran Preserve also features rock climbing areas that are perfect for experienced climbers. These trails already have fixed bolts to use. Make sure to followed all posted instructions for a safe climb. Scottsdale also has additional hiking spots such as Camelback Mountain that is a difficult and steep trail that rewards you with panoramic views of Scottsdale at the top. Scottsdale is the perfect playground for an outdoor enthusiast.

Check Out the Craft Beer Scene When You Travel to Scottsdale

Scottsdale and the greater Phoenix area has gotten into the craft beer scene over the last few years with several local spots to check out. Head on over to Goldwater Brewing Co. at the southern tip of Old Town Scottsdale for their cozy taproom. Enjoy craft beers on tap or try out a tasting flight. They host special events throughout the year in their basement that is a repurposed underground shooting range. Craft 64 in Scottsdale has an abundance of craft beer on tap. Pair your pint with one of their hand tossed pizzas that have become a local favorite around the valley. Scottsdale is also home to a variety of winery taprooms and distilleries so the adults can find their favorite adult beverage without having to travel far for it. Look into brewery or winery tours that will take you around Scottsdale to hit up all of the popular spots!

Scottsdale is Ready for Your Resolution

Booking a trip to Scottsdale will be the easiest New Year’s resolution you have completed once you see our vacation rentals. Reserve your favorite and get ready for Scottsdale.

After the end of year holidays are over, it is normal to feel a little blue. The decorations are put away, the anticipation has been realized, and for most of us, the diets have begun, but we at I Love Scottsdale know the secret to getting through the blues is to start planning your next vacation! 2025 is still a mystery to all of us as we write these words, but this preview to Scottsdale in the new year will give you a sneak peek into a vacation that will bring you joy, excitement, and comfort, especially when you choose I Love Scottsdale for your Arizona vacation destination. Here’s a quick guide of a 2025 Preview to Scottsdale.

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2025 Events in the Desert

The new year brings with it a long list of special events, starting with the Barrett Jackson Auto Auction that starts January 18th, which may be a little too close to start planning a Scottsdale vacation. If you have already made plans to be here during that week and you are interested, Barrett Jackson is a big deal around here every year. Held at West World, 16601 N Pima Road, guests can rub shoulders with celebrities, check out the newest vehicles, and marvel over the cars being auctioned off. Most recently, the fall auction featured Sammy Hagar’s 2015 Ferrari LaFerrari, selling for a record breaking $4.6 million, and although we don’t know what cars are set to appear in the 2025 auction, we know they will be impressive. Below, we have listed a few more upcoming events that are worth planning a Scottsdale vacation around.

WM Phoenix Open, February 3-9, TPC Scottsdale

The PGA comes to town in February, offering perhaps the most famous hole on the tour, the 16th hole. The hole that Tiger Woods famously hit a hole-in-one on in 1997 has since become famous for being the rowdiest hole on the tour, and there have been wild parties, streakers, and something else. Hmm, what could that be? Oh yes, some really good golf taking place on that hole and all 17 others for the in the WM Phoenix Open. The Bird’s Nest, a 48,000-square-foot tent under which guests will find food, drinks, and live music after the day’s games have concluded.

Parada Del Sol Rodeo, March 6-9, Westworld of Scottsdale

The Parada del Sol Rodeo, returning to town for the 71st year, offers one of our favorite parties, starting with the Trail’s End party that begins at the end of the parade. Featuring live music, yummy food, and a Kids’ Zone with games, pony rides, and of course, more food and drinks. The rodeo, nicknamed the best in the west, offers all the expected rodeo events including, bull riding, saddle bronc, and a variety of roping events.

Home to the Cactus League

March is a really big month here in Scottsdale as the Cactus League Spring Training dominates the scene with 16 big name baseball teams playing at a variety of stadiums throughout the valley. Scottsdale Stadium, located at 7408 E Osborn Road, is the Spring Training home to the San Francisco Giants, but there are 10 different stadiums in the area that surely have your favorite team playing. The Chicago Cubs are based here in the spring, playing at Sloan Park, a smaller version of Wrigley Field in their hometown. The boys of summer bring a magic to the area, along with hot dogs, beer, and because the weather is especially nice here in March, sunburned noses.

A Walk on the Wild Side

Although Scottsdale and the surrounding cities offer sophisticated experiences, there is an underlying wild side that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, many of which we have listed in the paragraphs below. Walking on the wild side has never been so fun and the beautiful Scottsdale weather will make your adventures even more memorable.

OdySea Aquarium, 9500 Via de Ventura Boulevard Suite A100 in Scottsdale

OdySea Aquarium usually brings a bit of a shock to those who visit, because seriously, who expects to find an aquarium in the desert? This largest aquarium in the Southwest offers over 2,000,000 gallons of water and a revolutionary rotating aquarium that brings all the different fish to viewers who sit in seats that stay in one place. You’ll find touch pools, shark tanks, and an art gallery that is unlike anything you have ever seen before. The Ocean Art Gallery is quite literally a gallery of individual aquariums, some floating in the air and all filled with colorful fish, seahorses, and translucent jellyfish floating within.

Phoenix Zoo, 455 N Galvin Parkway in Phoenix

The Phoenix Zoo is the largest nonprofit zoo charitable organization in the world, featuring over 125 acres of desert landscape and animal habitats. Once famous for Ruby, the painting elephant, today’s animal celeb is Fernando the Famous Sloth, whose cute face and funny antics have made people from all over the world fall in love. There are four trails that take zoo goers through drastically different sections, including the Africa Trail, where tigers, baboons, and river hogs roam in habitats that are designed to resemble their homes. The Arizona Trail is home to desert wildlife, including the Sonoran Desert Tortoise and the Tropics Trail inhabited by Toucans, rhinos, and Komodo dragons. And the final trail, the Children’s Trail offers domestic farm animals and the sweetest petting zoo allowing the kiddos to get up close and personal with the animals that reside within.

Out of Africa Wildlife Park, 3505 AZ-260 in Camp Verde

A road trip is involved with a visit to Out of Africa Wildlife Park, as Camp Verde is located about 100 miles north of Scottsdale. Offering a more intimate experience than the Phoenix Zoo, its animal encounters never fail to excite the imagination, especially their Predator Feed experience. During this tour, you follow the keepers as they toss slabs raw meat to the predators on the premises, including lions, bears, and hyenas. The African Bush Safari will make you feel as if you left the deserts of Arizona and stepped on to the savannas of Africa, riding through the habitats of giraffes, zebras, and even the critically endangered addax. There may be a chance to steal a kiss from a giraffe as you feed and learn the stories of the animals who live in the Serengeti/Camp Verde desert.

Shouldn’t Miss Scottsdale Experiences

As you spend your days exploring all the Scottsdale area has to offer, there are certain experiences that you should not miss, experiences that best reflect the vibe and personality of your Arizona vacation, and we’ve mentioned a few of our favorite shouldn’t miss activities below.

Scottsdale Fashion Square, E Camelback Road in Scottsdale

As malls are facing the competition of online shopping and losing in popularity, the success of Scottsdale Fashion Square may seem confusing, but when you step inside the mall for the first time, it will all become clear. This mall, successful and thriving offers the luxury brands that you may only have read about in fashion magazines, including the incomparable Louboutin brand. Also offering fine dining options, yoga studios, theaters, spas, and so much more, exploring all of Scottsdale Fashion Square will take some time, so be sure to plan for it.

Exploring Old Town Scottsdale

Our town is loosely divided into four separate areas, north, south, and central, and the Old Town area, with Old Town being the part you will really want to spend time exploring. Offering shops, galleries, and some of the best restaurants in town, the Sugar Bowl, an ice cream parlor that has stood the test of time, will sweeten all your adventures. The Rusty Spur Saloon, located at 7245 E Main Street, has been a local western bar experience since 1951, serving as a home away from home for cowboys, entertainers, and many of the celebrities that find themselves in Scottsdale on a Saturday night, looking for something to do. The biggest names in country music have performed on the stage and the biggest names in Hollywood have bellied up to the bar and ordered cold ones at the Rusty Spur. And finally, the Old Town Scottsdale wine & ail trails leads travelers on a tasting journey of some of the state’s best wines and beers.

MacDonald’s Ranch, 26540 N Scottsdale Road in Scottsdale

Scottsdale is billed as the “West’s Most Western Town,” and for a true to life Western visit you will need to visit MacDonalds Ranch to make your vacation dreams come true. Offering seasonal events that include a pumpkin patch in the fall, guests can enjoy horseback rides, carriage rides, and a fun western town on the same land where the horse ranch once did business. Their cowboy cookouts are available from November through April when the temperatures rise and a campfire cookout loses its appeal. Also offering a petting zoo and games for the kids, this family friendly experience promises to be the 2025 adventure you will never forget.

A Taste of Scottsdale

The best vacations include the best meals and the restaurants we have listed below will become an integral part of your vacation memories, offering a taste of Scottsdale that will haunt your dreams for years to come.

Arcadia Farms Café, 7025 E 1st Avenue in Scottsdale

Known for its brunch and lunch served every day, Arcadia Farms Café also serves dinner on Friday and Saturday evenings and has been an integral part of the Scottsdale dining experience for over 30 years. Its French inspired menu is created with locally sourced ingredients, making guests feel good about the foods they try and for a sweet start to your day, we highly recommend their Peach French Toast Casserole made with praline pecan caramel sauce topped with whipped cream. If that sweet is a little too much, you might want to go for their Mexican inspired breakfast, their short rib beef hash. Made with short ribs, roasted poblanos, and topped with home made salsa, this dish will give you the energy you need to survive a day of adventures.

Salt Cellar Restaurant, 550 Hayden Road in Scottsdale

The Salt Cellar is another desert surprise, focusing on seafood in an underground building that manages to stay cool, even during the hottest days of summer. Offering a taste of the world, one bite of delicious seafood at a time, this wonderful restaurant has been a local tradition for over 50 years. The bartenders at the Salt Cellar bar work magic with cocktails and the wines are smooth and silky with their after dinner drinks bringing joy. The dessert menu is one dreams are made of and change on a regular basis.

Spotted Donkey Cantina, 34505 N Scottsdale Road in Scottsdale

You can’t consider it a successful Scottsdale getaway without exploring the spicy delights of at least one authentic Mexican restaurant and for today’s purposes, it is the Spotted Donkey Cantina we are suggesting. Offering a whimsical donkey décor (Saying that is definitely a first for us!) a menu filled with deliciousness, and because what’s a Mexican meal without a margarita or four, over 40 varieties of tequila, each destined to make you forget about the good times you have enjoyed in Arizona! Any time is the best time to test your will power with chips and salsa, discover your limits with tequila, and enjoy an authentic Mexican meal, bursting with flavor. We love everything on the menu, but the Cantina Fajitas are a personal favorite, coming in four yummy varieties (chicken, vegetable, shrimp, and steak and sausage.

Excited for 2025

We hope you enjoyed our Scottsdale 2025 preview. We love the promise of a new year, and when you choose I Love Scottsdale for your vacation accommodations, we promise that the new year will shine brighter for you. Offering comfort, luxury, and more entertainment options including pools, hot tubs, game rooms, and more, your 2025 vacation in our Scottsdale sanctuaries will be the one you compare all others against. Reserve your favorite Arizona escape today!

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Scottsdale is a town with many sides. It is an artist’s colony that attracts the most talented artists in the world to its doorstep, it is a historic escape and a reminder of the Wild West days, and it is a city of sophistication, one where restaurants are high end, the shops feature the luxury brands that grace the covers of fashion magazines; Scottsdale is so many things to so many people but to us it is simply home. Today, we at I Love Scottsdale want to take a few minutes out of your day to show you the things we love, the places we frequent, and the things we think you should avoid, offering this local’s guide to Scottsdale that will take you off the beaten path and into the heart of what makes “the West’s Most Western Town” everything you have always dreamed it would be. Here’s our Local’s Guide to Scottsdale.

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Best Time To Visit Scottsdale

Arts and Culture

The beauty of Scottsdale is enhanced with a visit to the galleries and shops that line our streets, exploring the culture of those who lived here first, celebrating the beauty of the desert, and honoring the works that make the world a more beautiful place. And although there are plenty of shops and galleries that do all of the above well and may be more well known, it is the hidden gems we have listed below that will add an extra sparkle to your shopping experiences.

Cosanti Originals, 6433 E Doubletree Ranch Road in Paradise Valley

Although this beautiful business lies just outside of Scottsdale in the town of Paradise Valley, its unique beauty has us visiting often and we couldn’t wait to share it with you. Once the home and gallery of esteemed Italian American architect, Paolo Soleri, who lived there until his death in 2013, today it is an Arizona Historic Site that represents the works of some of the best artists in the state. The structures that contain all this beauty are an ode to talent as well, with the grounds resembling a scene from a Star Wars movies, something that has to be seen to be believed. But it is the art sold inside that will grab a piece of your heart, featuring everything from handcrafted bronze bells to limited edition fine art prints and everything in between. Be sure to set aside plenty of time to explore Cosanti, because this establishment of art and beauty is not something that can be explored on a whim.

The Mercantile of Scottsdale, 3965 N Brown Avenue in Scottsdale

No matter where you turn in Scottsdale, you are sure to come across a gallery, a boutique, a shop that is filled to the brim with wonderful treasures, and we wholeheartedly encourage dropping by any of them to explore their wares. However, if you are on a time crunch and still want to enjoy a comprehensive collection of Scottsdale art, we suggest turning your car in the direction of the Mercantile of Scottsdale. Home to over 100 vendors selling some of the most beautiful art in the state or do we dare say the entire nation? Every genre of art is represented in this collaboration of beauty and again, be sure to set aside plenty of time to explore all that it offers. Also offering home décor and classes in art, visitors could easily spend the better part of a day soaking in all its beauty.

Historic Scottsdale

Arizona became a state a lot later than most of the states in the nation, officially becoming the 48th state to join the union in 1912. With that being said, the history of our state and our hometown goes much further back, playing a key part in the wild, wild west and going back hundreds of years, serving as home to the native Pima and Maricopa tribes. This history is something we are proud of and while the tourists may be more interested in the shops and restaurants, we locals can often be seen spending our spare time in the places listed below.

Western Spirit: Scottsdale Museum of the West, 3830 Marshall Way in Scottsdale

Offering 43,000 square feet of exhibits, artifacts, artwork and more, this wonderful museum studies the wild west in 19 states throughout the nation, including Arizona and our hometown of Scottsdale. Closed on major holidays and closing early on the evening before Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s, Western Spirit has long been a popular event site for local events including the Western Horizons fundraiser held every February. Also exploring the lives of the native tribes who lived here all those hundreds of years ago, the museum paints a wonderful picture of those who walked before us.

S’edav Va’aki Museum, 4619 E Washington Street in Phoenix

Western Spirit is a wonderful museum, and it does briefly touch upon the history of the tribes that once lived here, but if you want a more comprehensive exploration of the native tribes, visiting the S’edav Va’aki Museum, a 1500-year-old archeological site will be an exciting opportunity. Recently reopened, guests can stroll along the loop trail, exploring a platform mound, ballcourt, demonstration gardens, and ancient irrigation canals, a technology that we still follow today. Also offering replica houses that give us a more clear idea of how those ancient peoples lived, the museum offers a fascinating deep dive into Native American history.

Taliesin West, 12621 N Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard in Scottsdale

World renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright once made Scottsdale his winter home with Taliesin West, serving as both his home and a school of architecture in which he shared his magic with the next generation of architects. Taliesin West and its counterpart Taliesin East in Wisconsin are considered Wright’s autobiography of his life. Each structure is built with local materials, with our Scottsdale version being built of desert masonry, something the genius was adamant about to the point that he didn’t even want windows in the building. His wife convinced him of the error of his ways and he later reluctantly included the windows into the design, making it a lesson by giving his students the responsibility of adding the windows without changing anything else in the design, even placement of furniture and accessories. Tours are offered on a daily basis, offering visitors a peek into the mind of perhaps the world’s greatest architect.

What’s Your Handicap?

With 330 days of sunshine, golf is a very popular game in Scottsdale, and during the cooler days of the year the courses are crowded with golfers from all over the world. In the summer, however, it is the locals that take over the courses, taking advantage of special deals and empty greens as most visitors aren’t adventurous enough to deal with triple-digit temperatures. There are, however, some courses in the area that are off the beaten path and are ones that will be your favorite spots to hit the ball, even during the busy season.

Starfire Golf Club, 11500 Hayden Road in Scottsdale

Originally the site of the Scottsdale Country Club, Starfire Golf Club is a public course that offers an 18-hole and a 9-hole course for your golfing pleasure. The ingenuous design makes the most of the three 8-hole courses that once was the main drawing point for the Scottsdale Country Club and due to the age of the landscape, mature trees aid in keeping golfers cool and unbothered. Offering a driving range, golf carts, and the much loved grille where stories of frustration and success are told every day, accompanied by frosty beverages and delicious food.

McDowell Mountain Golf Club, 10690 E Sheena Drive in Scottsdale

When you live in the desert, water is your most precious resource, something that may be hard to believe when you see the acres of green stretching out before you, but the McDowell Mountain Golf Club is known for its eco-sensitive landscape, offering wetlands, cattails, cactus, and mesquite trees, providing a different golf experience from what you might expect. Also offering practice facilities, a restaurant, and views of the McDowell Mountains that will make you fall in love with the desert, even as the game itself may provide frustration!

Gainey Ranch Golf Club, 7600 E Gainey Club Drive in Scottsdale

Our last course is a favorite one for busy locals, offering three separate 9-hole courses that allow us to hit a few balls and get back to the busy work of real life in short time. Gainey Ranch Golf Club can be a great addition to your tour of courses, especially on those days when the rest of the family is pushing for you to spend more time with them. The views of the mountains may distract you from your purpose, but that’s ok, those views will also help ease any frustrations you may experience from a bad drive or an overzealous putt.

A Taste Of the Town

Remember the crepes you ate on the street corner in Paris and the shrimp and grits you devoured during your Gulf Coast vacation in Alabama? The food you eat during vacation often becomes a key part of the vacation experience, haunting your dreams and playing a starring role in your memories and your Scottsdale vacation may add a new meal memory to your repertoire. Scottsdale restaurants are extremely popular and during the busy hours lines can be long, but the restaurants we listed below are where we like to eat and hang out and will offer shorter lines and less crowds.

Sugar Jam, The Southern Kitchen, 15111 Hayden Road Suite 170 in Scottsdale

Deep in the heart of the Southwest it is possible to find good old fashioned Southern comfort food with a visit to Sugar Jam, the Southern Kitchen. This bakery & bistro offers scents and flavors that will make your heart sing and your taste buds cheer, and if you don’t find yourself wanting to return again and again, well, we have to think it is just because there are more restaurants or you to explore. Papa’s Biscuits & Brisket is their elevated version of biscuits and gravy, offering fluffy biscuits topped with pork sausage country gravy and chopped brisket, a dish that is sure to change the way you look at Southern food forever.

The Stand, 4020 N Alma School Road in Scottsdale

You are about to add fry bread to your list of memorable meals and the rustic surroundings of the Stand will add to the experience. There’s no air conditioning at this roadside stand and the sky is your roof, but the puffs of dough covered in honey and powdered sugar, or topped with a variety of seasoned meats, beans, and/or cheeses will make you wonder why you have never tried Native food before. Leave your cards behind because this joint is cash only

Los Sombreros, 2534 N Scottsdale Road in Scottsdale

Authentic Mexican food is our specialty in Arizona and Los Sombreros is where you will find authentic and delicious regional Mexican cuisine. Also serving some of the best margaritas in town, the hometown feel of local hot spot will make diners feel right at home. We have yet to taste a meal that we didn’t like at this wonderful place, making it impossible to choose a favorite, but we do suggest that you taste your way through their taco menu and don’t forget to order their house made guacamole!

Where the Locals Go for Staycations

We hope you enjoyed our Scottsdale local’s guide. We live in paradise and are reluctant to leave, but we too need a vacation from real life, and although we could stay home and explore all the wonderful places we mentioned here from there, the honey-do lists are non-existent in our I Love Sedona Scottsdale sanctuaries. Besides, someone has to make sure that our guests receive all we promise, and since our word is important, a staycation helps to keep us honest. Reserve your favorite Scottsdale sanctuary today and discover a locals only getaway that will show you the hidden side of our favorite town!

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We all know that the holiday season is always a cherished time with friends and family. We look forward to the season every year. However, the cold weather can get old real quick especially if you live somewhere the temperatures drop below freezing. Come warm up this holiday season by taking a trip over to Scottsdale. Our Arizona home is the perfect spot for the holidays especially if you are looking for the ideal spot to celebrate New Year’s. Take a look at what you can plan ahead for when spending New Year’s Eve in Scottsdale:

New Year’s Eve at Toca Madera

One of the hottest restaurants here in Scottsdale can be found over in Old Town at Toca Madera. This is an incredible steak house and Mexican cuisine restaurant that elevates fine dining to a new level. Toca Madera will be bringing out a whole new culinary experience for New Year’s Eve that is perfect for a night out on the town. The festivities will kick off at 6:30 PM where you can enjoy a vibrant ambience, delectable flavors, and overall a memorable night. Reservations for this event are required with each person having a minimum spend of $150 per person. You will able to order from their carefully crafted menu with items that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Expect the usual Toca Madera experience including fire dancers and live DJs to keep the party going as you enjoy your meal. Don’t miss out on this popular event taking place in Scottsdale.

Decadence Arizona

When it comes to live music events Scottsdale and the rest of the Phoenix Valley are not typically thought of first. However, the music scene in the state of Arizona has drastically risen over the years bringing live events like no other. One such event will be taking place on December 30th and 31s over at the Phoenix Raceway. Of course we are taking about Decadence Arizona 2024 and it is the hottest electronic music event this year in Arizona. This two day event will sure to bring out nights of dancing with hot EDM artists including Steve Aoki, deadmau5, Excision, Dom Dolla, Zeds Dead, and more. ON New Year’s Eve John Summit will be on hand with his NYE Countdown Set that will have the crowd counting down to midnight for the new year and continue the set further into the night. Decadence Arizona has become one of the most looked forward to event in the EDM community with tickets still available. Don’t miss out on this dance party taking place on December 30th and 31st.

Phoenix Zoo Lights

New Year’s Eve is a great chance to have one last opportunity to enjoy some holiday activities in the area. Each year the Phoenix Zoo hosts their Zoo Lights event that has the entire zoo covered in millions of holiday lights. You can enjoy Zoo Lights during any evening of your New Year’s stay starting at 5:30 PM until 10:30 PM. You will be able to walk around all of the animal habitats that feature unique holiday light displays. One of the most popular attractions at Zoo Lights is the 200 foot light tunnel that is perfect for a photo or two. Food vendors will be selling hot cocoa and other treats to help you stay warm as you walk around. This is the perfect way to elevate your New Year’s stay even further. Phoenix Zoo Lights will continue until January 12th and is a separate ticket for your visit to the Phoenix Zoo.

New Year’s Eve Scottsdale Pub Crawl

If you are looking for a night out with the locals look no further than the New Year’s Eve Scottsdale Pub Crawl. This event will take place across over 10 different venues including pubs and bars here in Scottsdale. The party starts at Pour Decisions Patio & Kitchen here in Old Town. Over 300 guests are expected to join in on the fun where you can dress to impress. Your pass will get you free entry into the participating venues without a cover charge. You will also receive drink discount coupons, free welcome shot tickets at certain venues, and a NEW Bar crawl map to show you how to get to each bar and nightclub. Passes are on sale now for this lively event for ages 21 and up only.

More Fun Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Scottsdale

Now that you know a little bit more about what to expect in Scottsdale you can start planning for your upcoming stay. Our vacation rentals in the area are sure to keep you comfortable all stay long. They will also keep you close to these New Year’s Eve activities. Spending your New Year’s in Scottsdale is the way to go.

Skip out on the blistering cold found back home this holiday season and instead make your way to Scottsdale. Our Arizona home has everything you need for a memorable time including festive events and activities. Document your holiday stay by snapping a family holiday photo while here in Scottsdale. This will be a great opportunity to have the perfect photo for a holiday card or to save for memories. Here are the best spots for Scottsdale photography where you can take a family holiday photo:

ZooLights

One of the biggest holiday events each year is also a great spot to snap your holiday family picture. Of course we are talking about ZooLights found over at the Phoenix Zoo. Each year the Phoenix Zoo puts up millions of holiday lights and displays for the holiday season. ZooLights requires a separate pass for the zoo but is well worth the price of admission. You will be able to walk all around the zoo taking in the beautiful displays. Grab some hot cocoa to stay warm and take a family photo in front of one of the many displays available.

Scottsdale Photography at The Santa Social

There is no place better for some holiday shopping than Scottsdale Quarter. You will find all kinds of shops and boutiques in this wonderful plaza. They also host their Santa Social once again this year that is an all day event perfect for the whole family. The kids will have a blast with holiday activities including caricature artists, face painters, and special appearances by Christmas characters. Santa Claus will also be on hand for photos with the kids or the whole family. The event will also feature the Tree Lighting Ceremony that will light up the Scottsdale Quarter for the first time this holiday season. Grab a picture in front of this beautifully decorated tree that has thousands of lights. The event will close with a holiday screening of the movie Elf. A whole day of activities and beautiful background for a family photo is the perfect call. The Santa Social will take place this year on November 30th from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Book Your Stay in Scottsdale

There is no better place to spend your holiday season than Scottsdale. Our vacation rentals will keep you close to these great events and photo spots all season long. Book today and prepare for the holidays in Scottsdale!

Your holiday season does not need to be spent somewhere covered in snow where you can barely get outside. Instead, come join us here in Scottsdale, where you will find crisp temps and sunny skies. Scottsdale is a top Arizona winter destination where you can find plenty of holiday festivities. The city and surrounding areas will also be hosting several unique events exclusive to the area. Here is how to add a little magic to your Christmas season right here with these holiday events in Scottsdale:

Zoo Lights

One of Phoenix’s most cherished holiday events will once again be returning this year with Zoo Lights. This is a long standing tradition where the Phoenix Zoo is covered in millions of holiday lights, providing you with a unique experience here in the evening. Guests will be able to walk through the illuminated pathways connected trails and animal habitats that are now a dazzling spectacle. This year’s festivities will include a brand-new light show that will feature never before seen visuals and incredible music synced up to the show. There will be s’mores pits where you can enjoy delicious smores and warm up in front of the fire. Grab a cup of hot cocoa to take with you during your evening stroll. You will also be able to enter the 200-foot-long illuminated light tunnel in your vehicle on special nights taking place November 10th through 12th and January 13th and 14th. Santa Claus will be on hand for pictures. This year’s Zoo Lights will take place November 27th through January 12th. Entry into Zoo Lights starts at $30 per person and is a separate ticket from regular zoo visits. If you have any sensory sensitive children in the family, consider taking them to the Sensory Friendly Zoo Lights night taking place on December 2nd that features smaller crowds and quieter music.

Book Scottsdale Holiday Rentals Here!

Holiday Lights at Railroad Park

Another great spot to view wonderful holiday lights is McCormick Ranch here in Scottsdale. They will feature their Holiday Lights even once again this year from November 29th through December 30th. This event is different than Zoo Lights, as you will be able to explore a winter wonderland that is part of McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. The entire park will be lit up with thousands of holiday lights and wonderful displays. You will not want to miss a chance to board the Paradise & Pacific Railroad that will take you on a seasonal journey throughout the park. The McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park will be open during the day for free entry until 5:00 PM when Holiday Lights will begin. Guests are able to enter the park at designated times including 6:00 PM, 7:00 PM, or 8:00 PM. Your admission into the park include train and carousel rides, glow up mini golf, tour the Model Railroad Building, and more. Drinks and snacks will be available for purchase from Hartley’s General Store onsite. Tickets start at $15 per person with special weeknights available for only $10 per person. Don’t miss this Scottsdale exclusive event this holiday season!

Holiday Events in Scottsdale at World of illumination

Get ready for Arizona’s largest holiday light show by touring through World of Illumination. This has been named as a top holiday light show in the entire country and is returning once again to The Valley. You will have a choice of two different World of Illumination experiences. Rockin’ Christmas will be taking place in Glendale from November 16th through December 29th. Tempe will also be hosting the World of Illumination with Enchanted Safari from November 15th through December 29th. Each different venue will focus on their curated theme, offering a one of a kind experience. Regardless of what location you pick, you will a truly immersive drive through holiday light experience. Giant holiday displays are synchronized with holiday music providing with a visual experience like no other. 3D glasses are even provided to enjoy a unique perspective during certain parts of your drive. You will find over 500 different displays and over a million lights at each location for World of Illumination. You will remain comfortable and warm in your vehicle as you enjoy the drive through experience. Each year provides a new theme, so this will be your only chance to enjoy these two themes taking place in The Valley. Purchase your tickets today to reserve a spot in this highly desirable holiday event.

Scottsdale Is Ready for the Holidays

You will not find a more festive city than Scottsdale this holiday season. In addition to these events you will also be able to enjoy plenty of shopping at local malls and shops. Explore Old Town for holiday dining. Make sure to reserve one of our rentals in the area for the best stay in town.

If you are looking for the top holiday destination this year, you cannot go wrong with Scottsdale. While the rest of the country is dealing with frigid temps, Scottsdale is basking in the sunshine while still offering plenty of festive activities. One great way to celebrate Christmas is by taking your family out for a Christmas dinner in Scottsdale. There are some restaurants that remain open on Christmas for dine-in and take-out services. Here are which ones you’ll want to visit:

Dining In on Christmas

Scottsdale is full of incredible restaurants found all over the city that will invite you in on Christmas Day. One of our favorites is Tommy V’s Urban Kitchen & Bar. This trendy restaurant is found in Old Town Scottsdale and offers a little bit of everything in their New American cuisine. Some popular dishes that many locals absolutely love are the risotto, linguine with clams, halibut, burrata, and more. The restaurant tends to get busy quickly so placing a reservation in advance is highly recommended. You can also check out Harbor Seafood Super Buffet for an all-you-can-eat experience that is perfect for the holidays.

Take-Out Christmas Dinner in Scottsdale

Many restaurants also offer take-out services so you can take the food hot to go back to your vacation rental. Flo’s New Asian Cuisine is a great spot for all of your favorite Chinese dishes that can be easily enjoyed at your rental. Roaring Fork offers a New American menu that can be packaged up to go when you call it in. Maggiano’s Little Italy has all of your favorite Italian dishes and entrees ready to be served at home. You do not have to settle for a hole in the wall spot this holiday season!

Prepare Your Own Meal

Last but not least is preparing your own holiday meal back at your vacation rental. Our properties come ready to serve you and your family in a gourmet kitchen. These spacious rooms offer full-size appliances where you can easily bake up your entrees. Serve up your sides on the extended countertop buffet style. Most properties also feature spacious dining areas where you can enjoy your meal together. If this sounds like the ideal rental for you, make sure you book with us today. The holiday season will be here before you know it!

We all love the holiday season but some prefer to stay out of the cold. Make the most of your holiday season by spending a family getaway to beautiful Scottsdale, Arizona. You will find that the temps here are more than manageable allowing you to soak up all of the sunshine. Scottsdale will make sure it still feels like the holidays with an abundance of places where you can go to see Scottsdale Christmas lights and displays. Take a look at the top spots found around Scottsdale:

Desert Botanical Gardens

Scottsdale is a spacious city that is situated in the middle of the Phoenix Valley. You will find that our freeway systems make it a breeze to get to other parts of the city. There are several events sponsored each year by popular attractions that are sure to catch your attention. One such event is Las Noches de Las Luminarias taking place over at the Desert Botanical Gardens. If you have yet to visit the gardens, we highly recommend you do so to see preserved desert landscape and flora for all to see. This will be the 45th year that Las Noches de Las Luminarias will take place, an incredibly moving live music display with thousands of lit up luminaries decorating the garden landscape. You can see the show anytime after sundown from Thanksgiving through the end of December. Don’t miss out on this magical experience at the Desert Botanical Gardens.

Sing Along & Tree Light Ceremony

One of the best ways to see beautiful Christmas lights is attending your local Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Scottsdale features plenty of fun with our annual Tree Lighting Ceremony that also features a sing along special. This local event takes place at the Scottsdale Waterfront Canal Bank located at 7135 E Camelback Road. The event kicks off with a little musical fun presented by the Scottsdale Community College Orchestra who will play classic Christmas songs. The official sing along will kick off shortly after with local celebrities leading the way for the tunes. The tree lighting ceremony will officially kick off the holiday season by turning on the thousands of Christmas lights found on the Scottsdale tree. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on hand throughout the event to help out with photo opportunities. Make sure to stop by the local businesses nearby for free holiday treats to munch on. This is one holiday event with plenty of Christmas lights that you will not want to miss. The Sing Along and Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place on Saturday November 30th from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM; the official tree lighting will begin at 7:55 PM.

See Scottsdale Christmas Lights at the World of Illumination

If you are looking for one of the country’s biggest holiday light show look no further than the World of Illumination. This themed holiday light show is a massive drive thru experience where you get to enjoy millions of holiday lights lit up for you to see. The World of Illumination provides a multisensory experience with incredible synchronized illuminations that match with the music. Visitors will arrive in their vehicle and enjoy the show from the comfort of their seat. You are able to bring in your own goodies including snacks and drinks. Each vehicle can enter with a single ticket so individual passes for each individual is not needed.

This year the World of Illumination will provide two separate drive-thru experiences, each with its own theme. Head on out to Glendale where you can catch Rockin’ Christmas at Desert Diamond Casino. This event will run from November 16th through December 29th with a rock n roll themed light up experience. Or stick closer to Scottsdale by visiting Diablo Stadium in Tempe for the Enchanted Safari running November 15th through December 29th. Tickets are on sale now with a 25% discount available for those who purchase by early October; you will be able to schedule your World of Illumination experience at a later date! Don’t miss out on this truly epic experience found nowhere else!

Zoo Lights

Perhaps the most famous of the event during the holidays around Scottsdale is Zoo Lights taking place over at the Phoenix Zoo. You will find the entire zoo lit up with Christmas lights and displays after sundown. Experience dazzling light shows or one of the two Music in Motion shows located by the lake. Zoo Lights takes place this year from November 22nd through January 14th and is a must see experience.

Scottsdale Is Ready for the Holidays

Checking out the local Christmas lights is just one of many ways to enjoy your holiday stay here in Scottsdale. Book your stay in one of our rentals to enjoy luxury amenities and close proximity to these holiday light shows in the area.

There comes a time when a vacation opportunity will present itself to you. Whenever these moments come, we have to take advantage of them while we can. During your next last-minute getaway, come explore the wonders of Scottsdale. There is no better Arizona community to visit, no matter what time of year it is. Scottsdale has plenty of fun and excitement for the whole family to enjoy. Take a look at what you want to know for your last-minute trip to Scottsdale:

Shopping at Scottsdale Fashion Square

They say a little retail therapy is always best when on vacation, so when you visit Scottsdale, you have to check out Scottsdale Fashion Square. This is the finest mall experience you will have ever had. Scottsdale Fashion Square features all of your favorite clothing and apparel brands but also top of the line brands too for luxury shopping. Scottsdale Fashion Square has many five-star restaurants as well, either inside the mall or connected on the exterior. Pull up into the valet parking to feel like royalty. You can easily spend hours walking around the mall, being captivated at the luxury atmosphere all around you. Scottsdale Fashion Square is the one place you want to stop at for a little vacation shopping here in the area.

Check Out Old Town Scottsdale

Scottsdale has been around for decades and continues to be a thriving hub in the Valley of the Sun. Downtown Scottsdale is commonly referred to as Old Town Scottsdale and is where you can find historic buildings housing trendy shops and boutiques. You will find the finest collection of independent business owners here in Old Town Scottsdale. In addition to the shops, the area features some of the finest restaurants in town, including Olive & Ivy, Farm and Craft, and more. If you are looking to beat the heat in the summer, stop in the many art galleries found around Old Town Scottsdale that feature art by local and nationally renowned artists. Winery taprooms allow you to enjoy tasting flights of their award winning wines. The nightlife in Old Town Scottsdale is also a popular area with buzzy bars such as Hula’s Modern Tiki. There is something for everyone in Old Town Scottsdale.

Things for the Kids on. Your Last-Minute Trip to Scottsdale

There will be plenty of opportunities to show the kids some fun activities while you are enjoying a last-minute trip to Scottsdale. Perhaps the most popular children’s attractions can be found over at OdySea Aquarium and Butterfly Wonderland.
OdySea Aquarium is an incredibly large indoor aquarium located right off the local freeway, making it easy to get to. This spacious attraction holds over two million gallons of water in spacious underwater habitats for its unique creatures. Speaking of which, you will be able to see over 30,000 aquatic animals during your visit to OdySea. Your family will be able to tour the facility that features multiple levels to walk around. Some of the incredible animals you will get to see include sharks, sting rays, jellyfish, tropical fish, octopus, sea turtles, penguins, and otters. The giant habitats allow the animals to coexist just like they would out in the wild. You can participate in additional activities such as meet and greets with penguins, go helmet diving in one of the tanks with rays swimming by you, or encounter the loveable sloths. OdySea Aquarium also hosts unique events such as Fish and Sips that is an adults-only experience in the evening where you can walk around with an adult beverage.

Another attraction at the Arizona Boardwalk is the Butterfly Wonderland. You will be able to have a rainforest experience inside their giant atrium that houses thousands of free-flying butterflies. The space allows the wonderful insects to flutter around. You will have plenty of opportunities to snap a picture as one of them lands on you if you’re still! Their 3D movie experience teaches you all about the monarch butterfly migration and is a great way to beat the heat in the summer. There is even a reptile exhibit with incredible creatures along with an edible insect attraction where you can try insects that are enjoyed as a delicacy all over the world. Don’t miss out on these incredible attractions found in Scottsdale!

Access to the Finest Vacation Rentals in Town

Even if you are visiting at the last-minute, you will be able to find the perfect vacation rental for you and your family. Our properties are some of the finest homes in Scottsdale with luxury features found nowhere else. Enjoy features such as spacious living areas, crystal blue swimming pools, and close proximity to these activities in the area. A last-minute trip to Scottsdale is what the whole family needs!